What does it take to be an EMS?

Education and Training

To become a certified EMS professional, you must:

Be at least 18 years old

Have a high school diploma or equivalent

Pass a written test

Complete an accredited EMT training program

EMT training programs vary in length, but most take between 120 and 150 hours. They cover a variety of topics, including:

Emergency medical services

Anatomy and physiology

CPR

First aid

Wound care

Patient assessment

Trauma care

Medical emergencies

Continuing Education

Once you are certified as an EMT, you must complete continuing education courses every two years to maintain your certification. These courses cover new topics and help you stay up-to-date on the latest emergency medical practices.

Skills and Qualities

In addition to education and training, EMTs must also have certain skills and qualities, such as:

Ability to work under pressure

Good communication skills

Critical thinking skills

Compassion

Adaptability

Physical stamina

Career Outlook

The job outlook for EMTs is expected to be excellent over the next few years. As the population ages and the demand for emergency medical services increases, more EMTs will be needed to fill positions in hospitals, fire departments, and ambulance services.

Salary

The median salary for EMTs is $40,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and the type of employer.